Exercises · lower legs

Standing Bench Calf Stretch

A static stretch using a bench to lengthen the calf muscles.

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Secondary muscles

soleus

How to do it

  1. Stand in front of a bench or sturdy surface.
  2. Place the ball of one foot onto the edge, keeping heel on the floor.
  3. Lean your body forward while keeping your knee straight.
  4. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.
  5. Switch legs and repeat.

Form cues

  • Keep knee straight
  • Lean from the hips
  • Maintain upright posture
  • Feel stretch in calf, not ankle

Common mistakes

  • Bending the knee too much
  • Letting the foot roll inward or outward
  • Forcing the stretch

Breathing

Exhale as you relax into the stretch, inhale as you ease off.

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